IEC ready for local elections
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) on Thursday launched the 2016 Municipal Elections which could be the most contested South Africa's democratic history.
This year's will also be the first for newly appointed IEC chairperson Glen Mashinini who took over the commission in October 2015 following the resignation of the controversial previous chairperson, Pansy Tlakula.
Mashinini made it clear that the IEC's principles were in place and that the municipal elections would be democratic and fair.
He did, however, express his concern over the number of protests in the country and the number of people that are bused in to vote, but said that they are ready for the challenge to manage 22 600 voting stations.
Mashinini said they have plans in place to ensure that voting takes without a glitch.
"There are challenges regarding the acceptance of the final outcome of the Municipal Demarcation Board process by all communities and stakeholders," he said.
Mashinini said it could have an adverse impact on the registrations and/or voting activities.
(Edited by Suné du Toit)